Nikon and REI Adventures Go Birding in Ecuador

March 1, 2006 - Nikon Sport Optics announces the REI Adventures birding excursion of a lifetime, October 7-14, 2006 at the La Selva Lodge in Ecuador. Fatten your life list and experience Latin American birding at its best with guides Julie Zickefoose, nature writer, artist and NPR commentator, as well as Nikon's own Birding Market Specialist, Michael Freiberg.

La Selva Lodge's location is a dream-come-true for birders. The lagoon and adjacent forest harbor such rarities as the Zig Zag Heron, Long Tailed Patoo and Harpy Eagle, as well as over 450 species of other birds. Nearby, visitors will find a 135-foot observation tower, butterfly trail and many hiking trails for observation. Informal chats with the local guides during meal times add to the experience and allow the group to discuss birding in more depth.

The eight-day trip includes four nights at the La Selva Jungle Lodge and three nights in local hotels. Total cost for REI members is $1,899 ($2,125 for non-members.) Individuals may join REI for a one-time cost of $15. Group size is limited to 20.

A longtime contributor to Bird Watcher's Digest, Zickefoose has birded extensively in Latin America, studying with legendary Brazilian ornithologist Helmut Sick. Educated at Harvard University in biology and art, she is a widely published natural history writer and artist. Co-leader Michael Freiberg holds a degree in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University. He is currently traveling the country on behalf of Nikon Sport Optics to educate bird watchers of all levels on Nikon's optics. He also leads field trips while promoting research and conservation.

For more information on Nikon's full line of Binoculars, Spotting Scopes and Fieldscopes, contact: Nikon Sport Optics, 1300 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747-3064. 1-800-247-3464. www.nikonsportoptics.com.

For more information on REI Adventures trips, visit www.reiadventures.com or call 1-800-622-2236.

SOURCE Nikon, REI Adventures